Patient Resources
Types of Anesthesia
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia is medication given through a mask or IV that puts you into a controlled state of unconsciousness. During the procedure, a physician anesthesiologist closely monitors your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and other vital functions, and may place a breathing tube to support your airway. After surgery, the anesthesia is reversed and you are carefully monitored as you wake up. Some patients may experience temporary side effects like nausea, chills, or a sore throat, and your physician anesthesiologist will help manage any discomfort and guide your recovery.
Local Anesthesia
Local anesthesia numbs a small area of the body, allowing many procedures to be performed quickly with minimal preparation and faster recovery. Side effects are uncommon and usually mild, such as soreness at the injection site, though allergic reactions are rare. For some procedures, local anesthesia may be a safe and effective option, allowing you to recover faster, return home sooner, and potentially save money.
IV / Monitored Sedation
IV (monitored) sedation uses medications delivered through an IV to help you relax and reduce pain during a procedure. Levels of sedation can range from mild drowsiness to deep sedation, where you may not remember the procedure. Your breathing, oxygen levels, and vital signs are closely monitored, and oxygen may be provided if needed. Most patients wake up quickly once the medications are stopped and typically experience fewer side effects than with general anesthesia, allowing for a faster recovery. Sedation is often combined with local or regional anesthesia for added comfort.
Regional Anesthesia
Regional anesthesia numbs a large part of the body using medication delivered by injection or a small tube called a catheter. It is often used when local anesthesia is not enough and can allow you to remain awake during a procedure. Common types include spinal blocks and epidurals, which are widely used during childbirth to relieve pain while keeping the patient alert and the baby safe. Regional anesthesia is generally very safe and avoids many of the side effects associated with sedation or general anesthesia, though it still carries some risks and should be carefully administered and monitored by a physician anesthesiologist.
Learn more about Anesthesia
ABCs of Anesthesia
Learn the ABCs of Anesthesiology starting with “Anesthesiologist“.
Natural Sleep vs. General Anesthesia
Confusing general anesthesia and natural sleep can be dangerous.
Effects of Anesthesia
If you’re having surgery, you most likely will have some type of anesthesia to keep you from feeling pain during the procedure. While anesthesia is very safe, it can cause side effects both during and after the procedure. Most side effects of anesthesia are minor and temporary, though there are some more serious effects to be aware of and prepare for in advance.
The most important thing you can do to prevent anesthesia side effects is make sure a physician anesthesiologist is involved in your care. A physician anesthesiologist is a medical doctor who specializes in anesthesia, pain management, and critical care medicine.